THE GOWN: New York Lace in Downtown Taunton offers experience as well as selection

In the heart of downtown Taunton sits one of the premier stops for brides-to-be looking for that special dress: New York Lace Store. Established in 1907, this family business on Main Street offers the largest selection of bridal gowns in New England and has more than a century of experience serving brides from across the northeast.

In the heart of downtown Taunton sits one of the premier stops for brides-to-be looking for that special dress: New York Lace Store. Established in 1907, this family business on Main Street offers the largest selection of bridal gowns in New England and has more than a century of experience serving brides from across the northeast.

“We’re a 104-year-old business,” said owner Dolores Milho. “Service makes a business continue in this type of business, so it’s also a sign of what we do.”

With more than 1,000 wedding gowns ranging in price from $700 to $5,000, New York Lace is sure to have a dress that suits the style and fits the budget of every bride. The salon also keeps up with the latest

fashion trends and carries gowns from top designers, including Maggie Sottero, Sottero and Midgley, Marisa, Eve of Milady, and Casablanca Bridal, with Maggie Sottero as the best-selling designer due to its extensive line across a wide range of budgets.

“Our consultants are very educated, fashion conscious, and used to working with different body types,” said Milho.

In season

All designers carry a number of different styles of gowns, and Milho and her staff at New York Lace Store certainly know what’s “in” for brides this season.

Generally, the red carpet dictates the latest trends, as designers see what the celebrities are wearing and adapt it to wedding dresses. This season, following the hugely popular royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in England, lace has been making a comeback. Strapless dresses have also become increasingly popular.

“Strapless is very strong,” said Milho. “It’s been strong for a long time because it’s a comfortable dress and brides can move their arms comfortably.”

Popular skirt details that have been making appearances at local weddings include puckered, ruche, and ruffled; trumpet skirts have also become a popular style.

“Trumpet skirts are ... very form-fitting to show your shape,” Milho said.

For necklines, sweetheart has become most common, and for color, ivory has become the popular color choice in general. For destination weddings, however, white is definitely the way to go, and soft fabrics like chiffon work well with a white gown.

Making decisions

In general, there are two different approaches to choosing a wedding gown: Some brides want a more sophisticated look that accentuates their shape, while others want a more traditional appearance.

New York Lace caters to both; and as if choosing the dress isn't enough of a decision on its own, brides are also provided with a large collection of accessories the store carries. Popular accessories include tiaras, veils, jewelry, and beaded belts; the latter have become especially popular recently.

Page 2 of 2 - “Everything is about bling,” said Milho.

For brides looking for that special dress, it’s important not to let the price tag make the decision for you and to pick a dress that you’ll be happy with, according to Milho.

“Your wedding is a day that’s truly your day,” said Milho “It’s the only day in life that’s just for you.”

“If wondering if you like the dress or not,” Milho went on to explain, “move on to the next one. There are thousands of dresses. You’ll know whether it’s the dress or not. As soon as you put on the dress and look in that mirror, you’ll know it’s the right dress.”

Other services

New York Lace stores dresses until the wedding day, fully insures all dresses, and takes care of all alterations on the premises. The store also offers Kiara Salon and Spa to customers, whose talented staff can take care of all your beauty needs.

Brides looking to make a viewing appointment with New York Lace should call a week to two in advance, and plan on 1 to 1 1/2 hours for the viewing and selecting.

For a first visit, Milho recommends a small, intimate group of people.

“First visits should be with the most sincere people who will give most sincere answer,” explained Milho. “We live in a world of many opinions. The most important opinion should come from the people who know you the best.”